Perched on the westernmost edge of Europe, Portugal is a land of breathtaking coastlines, sun-kissed vineyards, and deep-rooted traditions. From the melodic sounds of Fado to the rich history of its architecture and, of course, its renowned culinary delights, the Portuguese people are known for their warmth, hospitality, and deep connection to their cultural heritage. And let’s not forget Portugal’s proud legacy of winemaking—did someone say Port wine? Today, we’re setting sail to explore holidays in Portugal, this beautiful country’s vibrant and festive traditions. Grab your favorite bottle of Portuguese wine, pour a glass (we’ll do the same), and embark on a journey through some of Portugal’s most iconic holidays and traditions.
Raise your glass and say “Saúde!” each time you read the word Portugal in this blog!
Things You May Not Know About Portugal
Before exploring Portugal’s rich array of holidays, let’s consider some fun facts about this nation that has been captivating hearts for centuries.
- It’s the home of Port wine. Port wine is one of Portugal’s most famous exports, and it’s produced exclusively in the Douro Valley. Whether you’re enjoying it as a dessert wine or paired with cheese, this fortified wine is a true taste of Portugal.
- Portugal boasts the oldest bookstore in the world. Bertrand Bookstore in Lisbon has been operating since 1732, making it the world’s oldest continuously open bookstore. It is a literary haven for book lovers!
- The Portuguese language is spoken across the globe. Portugal may be a small country, but its language is spoken by over 250 million people worldwide, making it one of the world’s most spoken languages.
- Portuguese cuisine is a seafood lover’s dream. From grilled sardines to the iconic Bacalhau (salted cod), Portugal’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean means it’s a paradise for seafood aficionados.
Holidays in Portugal: Celebrating the Heart of Portuguese Culture
Portugal’s calendar is filled with holidays that reflect the soul of its people. Whether rooted in religious traditions or celebrating historical milestones, these events are moments of joy, community, and tradition.
Here are some of the most beloved holidays and festivals celebrated across Portugal.
Carnival — February/March: Carnival in Portugal is a riot of color, music, and joy. Although it’s celebrated nationwide, the most famous parades take place in cities like Ovar, Torres Vedras, and Loulé. Streets are filled with revelers dressed in elaborate costumes, dancing to the beat of samba and other lively tunes. It’s a time for indulgence before the more somber period of Lent begins. And don’t forget the food! Sweet treats like malasadas and sonhos (Portuguese doughnuts) are a must during this festive time.
Easter — March/April: Easter is one of the most important religious holidays in Portugal, and it’s celebrated with reverence and tradition. Processions fill the streets, with towns like Braga and Óbidos known for their elaborate religious ceremonies. On Easter Sunday, families gather for a feast, with traditional dishes like lamb, folar (a sweet bread often with a hard-boiled egg in the middle), and plenty of sweets like amêndoas (sugar-coated almonds).
Portugal Day — June 10: Portugal Day, also known as “Dia de Portugal, de Camões e das Comunidades Portuguesas,” is a national holiday that celebrates the country’s cultural identity and its famous poet, Luís de Camões. On this day, Portugal pays tribute to its history and its people—both those living in Portugal and the diaspora around the world. Expect parades, concerts, and a wave of national pride to sweep across the country.
Saint Anthony’s Day — June 13: Lisbon comes alive in June to celebrate its patron saint, Saint Anthony. Known as the “matchmaker saint.” Saint Anthony is celebrated with street parties, traditional music, and lots of grilled sardines. The festival, which takes place in the Alfama district, is a time for neighbors to come together, enjoy food and drink, and even participate in a bit of romance, as Saint Anthony is said to bless marriages.
Christmas — December 24-25: Christmas in Portugal is a warm and festive affair, filled with family gatherings and delicious food. While many countries celebrate Christmas on December 25, Portuguese families often gather on the 24th for the “Consoada,” a traditional Christmas Eve dinner. The meal usually includes Bacalhau with potatoes and cabbage, followed by sweets like Bolo Rei (King Cake) and rabanadas (Portuguese-style French toast). Midnight Mass, or “Missa do Galo,” is an important tradition, and after the service, families return home to open gifts.
5 Traditional Festivals and Holidays in Portugal You Shouldn’t Miss
Saint John’s Festival — June 23-24: The Saint John’s Festival in Porto is one of the biggest and most popular street festivals in Portugal. Thousands of people flood the streets, waving plastic hammers and releasing floating lanterns into the sky. The festival celebrates Saint John, the patron saint of Porto, and includes music, dancing, fireworks, and, of course, grilled sardines and wine.
Festa da Flor (Flower Festival) — April/May: Held in the beautiful island of Madeira, the Flower Festival celebrates the arrival of spring with an explosion of color and fragrance. The streets of Funchal are lined with stunning floral displays, and the festival’s highlight is the Flower Parade, where locals wear vibrant flower costumes. It’s a celebration of nature’s beauty and Madeira’s unique botanical wonders.
Feast of Our Lady of Fatima — May 13: Fatima, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the Catholic world, draws thousands of visitors each year to commemorate the apparitions of the Virgin Mary to three shepherd children in 1917. On May 13, the Feast of Our Lady of Fatima, pilgrims gather for processions, prayers, and ceremonies that are both solemn and moving.
São Martinho — November 11: Saint Martin’s Day, or São Martinho, marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the winter months. In Portugal, it’s a time for feasting on roasted chestnuts, tasting the year’s new wine, and enjoying seasonal treats. Bonfires are lit, and in rural areas, it’s common to see communal gatherings celebrating the occasion.
Ocean Festival (Festa do Mar) — August: The Ocean Festival celebrates Portugal’s long-standing relationship with the sea in the coastal town of Cascais. With boat races, seafood feasts, and live music, it’s a summer event that showcases the town’s maritime history and culture.
What Christmas Traditions Does Portugal Have?
Christmas in Portugal is a deeply religious occasion, and many of the traditions revolve around the birth of Christ. Christmas Eve (Consoada) is the most important night for families, who gather for a grand dinner that traditionally includes salted codfish (bacalhau) with potatoes and cabbage. After dinner, families attend the Midnight Mass (Missa do Galo) to celebrate the birth of Jesus.
One of the most unique Christmas traditions in Portugal is the Madeiro, a large bonfire lit in town squares on Christmas Eve, especially in rural areas. This fire is a symbol of warmth and light, bringing people together to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.
Another popular custom is the Christmas crib (Presépio), which depicts the nativity scene. Many Portuguese homes and churches proudly display detailed cribs with figures of Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus, often accompanied by animals and the Three Wise Men.
While the figure of Santa Claus (known as Pai Natal) has become more popular in recent years due to global influences, traditionally, Portuguese children believe that the baby Jesus (Menino Jesus) brings them gifts on Christmas Eve. This older tradition reflects the strong Catholic roots of Portugal and emphasizes the religious aspect of the holiday season.
In some regions, however, the idea of Pai Natal has taken hold, and children leave out their shoes by the fireplace or under the Christmas tree, hoping to find them filled with presents by morning.
Gift Ideas for Holidays in Portugal
Looking to send a thoughtful gift to loved ones in Portugal? Whether for a holiday or just because here are a few ideas:
- Wine Gifts to Portugal: A fine bottle of Portuguese wine is always a great choice. Explore local favorites like Port or Vinho Verde to make their celebration extra special.
- Gourmet Gift Baskets: Filled with traditional Portuguese treats like sardines, cheese, and sweets, sending a gift basket to Portugal will bring a taste of the country to any occasion.
- Fruits and Nuts: Fresh fruit and nut baskets make a perfect pairing with wine or as a standalone gift for those who love natural treats.
Now that you know more about Portugal’s holidays and traditions, you’re well on your way to embracing the country’s vibrant culture. So, raise a glass, enjoy the moment, and consider sending a little bit of Portugal to your loved ones through international gift delivery!
Passionate about friends, family, music, soccer, gifts, travel, and lifelong learning, Otavio Ribeiro has been contributing his marketing expertise to GiftBasketsOverseas, which he considers his second family, since 2016.
A Brazilian holding dual nationality with Portugal, Otavio also has a deep love for writing. His guiding principle and favorite quote is, “Be so good they can’t ignore you.”